Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine that causes stiffness
and pain. People with scoliosis have a sideways curve in their spine
that makes an "S" or "C" shape.

Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine that causes stiffness
and pain. It is called an idiopathic disease because the cause of it is
unknown. Scoliosis is more common in females and begins in childhood.
However, merely 2 percent of the population is afflicted. If it is
detected early, scoliosis treatment will prevent it from worsening over
time.

Scoliosis is derived from the Greek term meaning
curvature. People with scoliosis have a sideways curve in their spine
that makes an "S" or "C" shape. The vertebrae can rotate at the thoracic
level of the spine causing this curve and resulting in a hump near the
rib cage. If the curve is more than 60 degrees it is considered serious.
Usually this curve makes the waist or shoulders uneven. And unlike the
normal curvature of the spine, adjusting your posture will not correct
the problem.

In some instances, the degenerative diseases of
the spine can cause scoliosis. Osteoporosis is when the bones soften and
usually occurs in older people. This softening can cause the vertebrae
to bend and shape the curve causing scoliosis or kyphosis (round back).
If not treated properly, severe back pain, deformity, and difficulty
breathing can be some symptoms that will arise.

Chiropractic care can help improve this condition.
We look at your overall health examining your spine as well as other
factors of your lifestyle. To help identify the problem's cause, we will
discuss symptoms and previous injuries, your family's health history,
and recreational and work-related activities.

Most exams for scoliosis include the Adam's
Forward Bending Test and have been adopted by many schools, whereas they
test for this in physical education classes. It requires the person to
bend at the waist as someone views the spinal alignment. If there is an
abnormal prominence or hump we can help you. We will measure the length
of the legs to determine unevenness. We also perform a range of motion
test that measures the degree to which the patient has mobility at the
waist. If needed, we will refer you to a specialist for further
scoliosis treatment.

An orthopedic brace can be used to prevent the
curve from worsening and does not limit physical activity. Moist heat
will help alleviate some pain. In extreme cases surgery may be required
but only after the continuous observation has shown that a brace is not
helping. Spinal fusion and instrumentation is a surgery specialized for
people with scoliosis whereas rods and hooks are inserted to help align
your spine and prevent further curving.

Regular visits to observe the progression of
scoliosis, are an integral part of living a full and happy life.
Scoliosis can be treated in various ways to help alleviate pain and
restore normal functionality. Regardless of the treatment used, physical
therapy may be added to scoliosis treatment to increase muscle strength
and mobility. If you have any questions about your physical
limitations, please contact us.